HBCU ORIGINAL
Antwain Banks’ Fourth Quarter Touchdown Sparks Bowie State, but Davenport Holds on for a 17-14 Win
Antwain Banks’ Fourth Quarter Touchdown Sparks Bowie State, but Davenport Holds on for a 17-14 Win
Bowie, MD – In a game dominated by defense, the Davenport Panthers narrowly escaped with a 17-14 victory over the HBCU Bowie State Bulldogs on Saturday afternoon at Bulldog Stadium. The win moves Davenport to 2-0 on the season and improves their record against the Bulldogs to 2 0.
The Panther’s first score on their second drive came off Brandon Gielow‘s foot when he successfully drilled a 42-yard field goal to give DU the first lead of the game, 3-0. From there, Davenport would control the momentum of the game when, in the second quarter, Mike O’Horo connected with Preston Smith on a fade route in the back of the end zone for the touchdown, making it 10-0.
Bowie State would respond 2 minutes before the half late in the second quarter. After a crucial stop by the Bowie Defense, Kevin Taylor‘s 11-yard drive would cap off an eight-yard touchdown pass to Awesome Waller, Jr., bringing the score to 10-7. However, Davenport struck back right before halftime when O’Horo found Antjuan Collins near the three-yard line, and after a quick juke, Collins took it into the end zone to give the Panthers a 17-7 lead at halftime.
The second half became a defensive showdown, with both teams struggling to capitalize on long drives. Bowie State finally broke through at the start of the fourth quarter when Taylor launched a 30-yard touchdown pass to Antwain Banks, who debuted for the Bulldogs after transferring from Lincoln University. This score narrowed the deficit to 17-14 and gave Bowie State hope for a comeback.
Why Antwain Banks’ Impact and the Story Is Important.
As a Maryland high school standout at quarterback, Bank was a dynamic quarterback at Edgewood High School in Edgewood, Maryland. Despite his success as a state leader in high school, college programs didn’t know what to do with him, leaving him under-recruited and without offers until just before graduation, when Frostburg University extended an offer to play quarterback. Ironically, he only played quarterback in high school after the starting QB transferred in the middle of his junior year at Edgewood. As the most dynamic athlete on the field, initially playing slot receiver, he stepped into the quarterback role because there were no other viable options. He took on the challenge, hoping colleges would recognize how explosive and versatile he was with the ball in his hands.
Despite his remarkable stats as a dual-threat quarterback, rushing for over 4,000 yards and 46 touchdowns during his sophomore and junior seasons, he led the state in rushing both years, ranking first in touchdowns his junior year and finishing second in touchdowns his senior year.
High School Honors:
- 1st in state for scoring & touchdowns (26) in 2018
- 2nd in state rushing (131 ATT | 1,686 YDS) in 2018
- 5th in state total yards (2,498) in 2018
- 1st in the 3A division for total yards in 2018
- 1st in 3A rushing (126 ATT | 1,544 YDS) in 2017
- 1st in 3A division touchdowns (20) in 2017
- 1st in 3A division total yards (2,629) in 2017
- All-Metro mention, All-Conference, and All-County
Collegiate Honors:
- Dean’s List with a 3.8 GPA in 2022
- All-Academic Team with a 3.38 GPA in the 2023 slot as a redshirt freshman receiver
After redshirting at Frostburg, he transitioned to slot receiver at HBCU Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. Earning a starting position at Lincoln, he soon realized he could better showcase his talents in a more competitive program. This led him to transfer to Bowie State during his sophomore redshirt to pursue a starting role. Banks’ journey to Bowie State is one of perseverance as an under-recruited athlete out of high school. His performance on Saturday—two catches for 57 yards and a touchdown—showed the value of athletes who may have been overlooked but possess the talent to make an impact.
Banks’ story mirrors that of his cousin, Deonte Banks, who also faced limited recruiting opportunities before earning a late scholarship offer from the University of Maryland. Deonte would be a first-round draft pick for the New York Giants, proving that under-recruited athletes can defy expectations when given the chance. Athletes like Antwain Banks are often overlooked by major programs due to their lack of star ratings and limited visibility in their high school markets, often because they come from more rural areas. Factors like a lack of recruiting networks among coaches and outdated recruitment philosophies also contribute to their underexposure. With the rise of social media, some recruiting budgets are being cut as recruiters rely more on online data. Colleges now prefer athletes to come to them through unofficial visits, mega camps, junior days, and game day experiences rather than actively scouting them in person.
Antwain demonstrated talent and knows no ranking. These athletes find ways to contribute at all levels of college football, often walking on or transferring to programs where they can showcase their skills. The Under Recruited Athlete platform exists to highlight these stories, ensuring that athletes with similar paths to Banks have opportunities to be seen and scouted by college programs.
Bowie State showed resilience and heart despite the loss, especially from players like Antwain Banks, whose story embodies the spirit of underrecruited athletes across the country. As college programs look to strengthen their rosters, Banks’ performance is a reminder of the untapped potential in athletes who may not have received high recruiting attention but are fully capable of impacting the field.
🏈 2025 HBCU FOOTBALL HOMECOMING SCHEDULE
🎓 Grouped by Conference | 🔥 = Highlight Game
🟣 SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
| Date | Matchup | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 4 | 🔥 Alabama State vs. Bethune‑Cookman | Classic Montgomery |
| Oct 11 | 🔥 Alabama A&M vs. Mississippi Valley State | Big in Huntsville |
| Oct 11 | 🔥 Grambling State vs. Texas Southern | Grambling Homecoming |
| Oct 18 | 🔥 Southern vs. Prairie View A&M | Baton Rouge rivalry |
| Oct 25 | Prairie View A&M vs. Lincoln (CA) | Celebratory crowd |
| Oct 11 | Jackson State vs. Alabama State | Mid-season showdown |
| Oct 18 | Mississippi Valley State vs. Lincoln (CA) | MVSU campus event |
| Oct 25 | Bethune‑Cookman vs. UAPB | Daytona Beach fun |
🔵 MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)
| Date | Matchup | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 4 | 🔥 NC Central vs. South Carolina State | GHOE season opener |
| Oct 11 | Delaware State vs. Southern Connecticut State | Dover celebration |
| Oct 25 | 🔥 Howard vs. Morgan State | D.C. showdown |
| Oct 25 | Norfolk State vs. South Carolina State | Norfolk tradition |
| Oct 25 | NC Central vs. Delaware State | Eagles finale crowd |
🔴 CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association)
| Date | Matchup | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 11 | 🔥 Fayetteville State vs. Livingstone | CIAA main event |
| Oct 18 | Virginia Union vs. Lincoln (PA) | Home field energy |
| Oct 18 | Winston‑Salem State vs. Livingstone | WS buzz |
| Oct 18 | Shaw vs. Johnson C. Smith | Rivalry vibes |
🟠 SIAC (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference)
| Date | Matchup | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 18 | 🔥 Morehouse vs. Lane College | Housecoming! |
| Oct 18 | Albany State vs. Tuskegee | Gold Rush feel |
| Oct 18 | Miles vs. Clark Atlanta | Birmingham-based joy |
| Oct 25 | Clark Atlanta vs. Edward Waters | Campus-heavy weekend |
| Oct 25 | Savannah State vs. Morehouse | Final home rally |
🟡 NAIA & Independents
| Date | Matchup | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sept 27 | 🔥 Alcorn State vs. Arkansas–Pine Bluff | Southern Heritage Classic |
| Sept 27 | Virginia Union vs. Miles | Black College HOF Classic |
| Oct 18 | Florida Memorial vs. Warner | Florida energy |
| Oct 11 | Langston vs. Arkansas Baptist | OK homecoming energy |
| Oct 11 | Morgan State vs. Virginia–Lynchburg | Home city showcase |
| Oct 18 | Texas Southern vs. Virginia–Lynchburg |
Destinations
HBCU Festival 2025 at the Mann Center | TD Bank Presents One of the Nation’s Largest HBCU Events
PHILADELPHIA, PA | May 17, 2025 – The HBCU Festival presented by TD Bank returns to the Mann Center for the Performing Arts with a dynamic and inspiring event celebrating the culture, education, and legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Over 30,000 attendees are expected as this free community festival features: 🎓 College Fair – 25+ HBCUs including Howard, Cheyney, Morgan State & Tuskegee 💼 Career Fair – Connect with local employers, trade unions, and apprenticeships 🎭 Live Performances – HBCU drumlines, choirs, cheer squads & more 🏥 Wellness Zone – Free health screenings & community resources 🎶 Master Classes – HBCU-led workshops for Philly high schoolers 🍴 Food, Fun & Family Activities – All-day experiences for everyone! Special Performers Include: The Aeolians of Oakwood University Howard University Gospel Choir Cold Steel Drumline & Cool Mist Dancers (NC A&T) Powerhouse of Red & White (Winston Salem State University) Jeremy Winston Chorale International Presented by: TD Bank Hosted at: The Mann Center for the Performing Arts, Fairmount Park ⏰ Time: 11AM – 5PM 🎟 FREE Admission | Register at: https://manncenter.org/hbcu Let us know in the comments which performance or school you’re most excited about! 🎉 #HBCUFestival #HBCUPride #MannCenter2025
Destinations
🌸 Discover, Explore & Bloom: A Springtime Escape to Longwood Gardens! 🌿HBCU Students and Colleges!
Hey HBCU students and college scholars everywhere—looking for the perfect spring escape? Come explore the beauty, peace, and inspiration waiting for you at Longwood Gardens, one of the premier horticultural display gardens in the United States. Nestled in the Brandywine Creek Valley in Kennett Square, PA, Longwood spans over 1,100 acres of vibrant gardens, lush woodlands, and tranquil meadows. This season, new is in bloom—and you’re invited to be a part of it. 🌱 What’s Fresh This Spring? ✨ Brand-new Bonsai Courtyard – Discover the art of miniature trees in a stunning outdoor display. 🌼 Redesigned Idea Garden – A fresh space filled with creative planting concepts and seasonal color. 🌳 Gorgeous Outdoor Landscapes – Expanded beauty, perfect for strolls, study breaks, and photos. 🌺 Plant Lover’s Paradise With over 10,000 species and varieties representing 200 plant families, Longwood is a living classroom and breathtaking destination for anyone curious about nature, botany, or simply in need of a scenic recharge. Whether you’re here for inspiration, relaxation, or a weekend adventure, this is the place to bloom this spring. 📍 Visit Longwood Gardens – Kennett Square, PA 📸 Don’t forget to tag us in your favorite photos: #HBCUOriginal #SpringIntoNew #LongwoodGardens Let’s grow, learn, and thrive—together.
Destinations
National Museum of African American History and Culture Tour | HBCU Original Explores Black History
“Join HBCU Original as we explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. 🌟 From the moving Slavery and Freedom exhibits to the vibrant galleries celebrating African American music, art, sports, and innovation, this museum showcases the resilience, brilliance, and culture of Black Americans throughout history. 📍 Located on the National Mall, this Smithsonian institution is a must-visit destination for everyone seeking to understand the full scope of American history. Plan your visit: National Museum of African American History and Culture Official Website ✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more HBCU-inspired adventures and cultural insights. Stay original, stay proud! #NMAAHC #AfricanAmericanHistory #BlackExcellence #HBCUOriginal #Smithsonian #BlackCulture #WashingtonDC #MuseumTour #AmericanHistory #CulturalHeritage
HBCU ORIGINAL
Morehouse and Clark Atlanta Receive New Helmets from Arthur M. Blank Foundation and Atlanta Falcons
ATLANTA — Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University Football Programs Receive New Helmets Through Arthur M. Blank Foundation Grant
Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University are kicking off the 2025 football season with a major boost to player safety. Thanks to a generous grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, in partnership with the Atlanta Falcons, both HBCU programs have received brand-new football helmets featuring cutting-edge technology designed to enhance student-athlete health and safety.
Chris Millman, Senior Vice President of Community Engagement and Sports Philanthropy at AMB Sports and Entertainment, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
“We are proud to support the football programs at these historic institutions through this grant. Player health and safety is paramount at every level of the game, and the technological advancements in helmet design over the last five years have been remarkable. We’re pleased to help these teams prioritize the well-being of their student-athletes.”
Harold Ellis, Director of Athletics at Morehouse College, expressed deep appreciation for the gift:
“Morehouse Athletics is grateful for this opportunity. The new helmets will significantly enhance player safety and provide our Maroon Tigers with top-level protection as they take the field this season. We thank the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and the Atlanta Falcons for their generosity and for forming a meaningful partnership that supports our commitment to a safe and empowering student-athlete experience.”
Clark Atlanta University Head Coach Teddy Keaton also acknowledged the broader impact of the donation:
“This is more than just new gear—it’s an investment in the future and well-being of our young men. We are thankful to the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and the Atlanta Falcons for recognizing the importance of protecting our players both on and off the field. These helmets symbolize progress, purpose, and the strength of partnership.”
About the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation
Founded in 1995 by Arthur M. Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation works to transform lives and communities by bringing people together to address critical issues. The foundation has awarded over $1.5 billion to causes across its core focus areas: Atlanta’s Westside, Democracy, Environment, Mental Health & Well-Being, and Youth Development.
The foundation also supports essential Atlanta institutions such as Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the Shepherd Center, along with founder-led initiatives focused on veterans, military families, and individuals who stutter. For more information, visit www.blankfoundation.org.
Photo Credit: David Collins, Morehouse College Office of Institutional Advancement.
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